Missing your period can be worrisome, especially if you’ve had unprotected sex. Even though a missed period is one of the first signs of pregnancy, there are ways you may be able to avoid getting pregnant after a missed period naturally.
Understand Why You Missed Your Period
Before trying to avoid pregnancy, understand why you missed your period in the first place. Common reasons include:
- Stress
- Hormonal imbalances
- Birth control
- Pregnancy
- Medical conditions
Knowing the cause can help determine the next steps.
Take a Pregnancy Test
Take a home pregnancy test a few days after missing your period. If positive, speak to your doctor about options. If negative, consider the below natural tips.
Use Protection
Using condoms or other barrier methods each time you have sex can help avoid pregnancy. Condoms are 85% effective with typical use.
Track Ovulation
Ovulation occurs around 14 days before your next period. Tracking your cycle and avoiding sex during your fertile window can help. Calendar methods are 76-88% effective.
Monitor Cervical Mucus
Your cervix produces wet, slippery mucus during ovulation. Avoiding sex when this fertile mucus is present can decrease pregnancy chances. This method is 78-94% effective.
Use Emergency Contraception
If you’ve had unprotected sex, emergency contraception like Plan B can prevent pregnancy when taken within 72-120 hours. It’s not as effective as regular contraception.
Consider Natural Herbs
Some herbs like parsley and angelica may help induce menstruation. However, they can be toxic in high doses. Seek medical advice first. Effectiveness varies.
Monitor your symptoms, take a pregnancy test if you missed your next period, and speak to your doctor if concerned. Avoiding pregnancy naturally after a missed period takes effort but is possible.
